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  2. Volume 2 I Issue 3 [July To September]
  3. ROLE OF KAYACHIKITSA IN PSYCHO-ONCOLOGY: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW
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Priya Bhaware

ROLE OF KAYACHIKITSA IN PSYCHO-ONCOLOGY: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Introduction: Psycho-oncology is an interdisciplinary field addressing the psychological, emotional, behavioral, and social aspects of cancer care. Cancer patients often face distress, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and existential crises that impair quality of life. Ayurveda, particularly through Kayachikitsa (internal medicine), offers holistic frameworks integrating body–mind–spirit balance, which may complement modern psycho-oncological care. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar using keywords “Ayurveda,” “Kayachikitsa,” “psycho-oncology,” “cancer,” “quality of life,” and “mental health.” Classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) were critically reviewed. Peer-reviewed articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews, and observational studies published between 2000–2025 were included. Non-peer-reviewed reports and anecdotal claims were excluded. Results: Kayachikitsa provides multiple strategies applicable to psycho-oncology, including: (1) Manas Roga Chikitsa (management of mental disorders) through herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), which improve mood, sleep, and resilience; (2) Rasayana therapies that enhance immunity and psychological well-being; (3) Panchakarma procedures like Shirodhara and Nasya for stress reduction and sleep regulation; (4) behavioral regimens (Sadvritta, Achara Rasayana) for coping and emotional stability; and (5) yoga, pranayama, and meditation for mind–body integration. Clinical evidence indicates benefits of Ayurvedic interventions in reducing fatigue, anxiety, and depression while improving quality of life in cancer survivors. Discussion: While promising, current evidence is limited by heterogeneity in study design and lack of large-scale trials. Integrative approaches combining modern psycho-oncology and Kayachikitsa could provide culturally sensitive, cost-effective, and holistic care for cancer patients. Conclusion: Ayurveda, through Kayachikitsa, offers meaningful contributions to psycho-oncology by addressing psychological distress, enhancing coping, and improving quality of life. Its integration into supportive oncology care deserves further systematic exploration.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Cancer, Kayachikitsa, Psycho-oncology, Quality of Life